Polish analysts warn record defense budget requires institutional reform

Polish defense policy experts and think tanks, including Rozwój Plus and the Defence Institute, are calling for structural reforms to complement the nation's surging defense spending. Poland's military budget is projected to reach 200.1 billion PLN by 2026, representing 4.81 percent of GDP—up from 2.2 percent in 2022.

While Warsaw continues acquiring high-profile military hardware such as F-35 fighter jets, Abrams tanks, and HIMARS rocket systems, commentators warn that high spending alone does not guarantee effective deterrence. Defense analysts argue that current procurement and mobilization frameworks suffer from organizational drift. Experts emphasize that converting record outlays into actual combat readiness requires overhauling command structures, personnel management, and defense acquisition systems.

Sources: Defence24, Portal obronny, Rzeczpospolita, TVP info